Sturgeon US trip to head-off Brexit anxieties

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is to visit California and New York next month to promote the skills and expertise of Scotland to the North American business community and salve fears of investors in the wake of the UK’s decision to leave the EU.

The visit will focus on promoting trade and investment between the two countries, boosting tourism, sharing best practice across the public and private sector and promoting Scottish innovation and entrepreneurship.

The First Minister will also speak at Stanford University on Scotland’s place in the world and at the UN on the Scottish Government’s programme of work supporting women from areas of conflict in participating in peace building activities.

The USA remains Scotland’s top source of inward investment, accounting for 36 per cent of inward investment projects and is Scotland’s second largest export partner - worth £4.56 billion a year, making up 15.9 per cent of all international exports.

Confirming the visit - which takes place during Scotland Week in the USA, the First Minister said: “Scotland has a longstanding relationship with the United States which spans family, friendship and business and this government is committed to continuing to strengthen these ties.

“We have a strong record in attracting international investment and Scotland continues to be the top destination in the UK for foreign direct investment outside of London. We have also seen a steady rise in visitors from North America to Scotland in recent years and a growing interest from the US market in Scottish products.

“There are huge opportunities for Scottish business in the USA particularly in technology and tourism, two areas which will be at the centre of this visit.

“Following the UK’s vote to leave the EU and the UK Government’s decision to leave the single market, I want to reassure investors and visitors from the United States that Scotland is an outward looking, welcoming country and remains open for business.

“I look forward to building on the existing links between our countries and promoting Scotland as a country to invest in, visit and live.”

The programme of activity, delivered by Scottish Development International (SDI) and the Scottish Government, will take place from 2 to 7 April 2017 in both California and New York City.

FM’s visit will include a number of business engagements covering technology, food and drink and tourism.

She will give a key note speech at Stanford on Scotland’s Place in the World and speak at UN Women on the Scottish Government’s support for women in areas of conflict - focussing on Syria, human rights and conflict resolution.

The First Minister will also support Scottish Ballet ahead of its first New York performance.

More details of the FM’s programme will be available later this week.